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Five Little Doves

Sharing Our Lives Raising Rainbows

in Family· Letters to my children· School days

Looks like we made it: Surviving Reception year

Eva,

Ten months ago, forty five long weeks ago, when I prised your little hand from mine and left you there on your first day at school, I had no idea what this coming year had in store. When you cried that first morning, I told myself it was to be expected, that it was such an over whelming change, that it would be crazy to assume you would settle instantly, that it would, of course, take time.

As days turned to weeks and the other children no longer clung to their parents each morning in the same way that you did, I told myself that some children simply take longer than others to settle, that this too would pass. When you sobbed each night and begged me not to send you to school the next day, I assumed that you were over-tired, over dramatic, that you were simply adjusting to the long days in school.

As the months crept by, with the changing of the seasons, the changes in you soon became apparent. You no longer had a skip in your step or a twinkle in your eye, I couldn’t remember the last time I heard you laugh, really laugh, or be silly with your siblings. All of a sudden you followed me from room to room, standing at the door whilst I used the toilet, begging to come with me when I nipped to Tesco, waking in the night and calling my name. When I caught you unawares, your sad little face cupped in your hands, sucking on your fingers in a way you hadn’t done for years, my heart broke for the little girl I felt I was losing

As Christmas came around I had so looked forward to watching your first nativity, to see you up there on the stage, my beautiful little angel, singing along amongst your friends. As the day approached you pleaded with me not to make you do it, to let you stay at home, told me that you felt too poorly, too sad, too scared. And I had told you that you must go, reassured you that it would be fine, that it would be fun, that you’d enjoy it. And sitting there in the audience,  I can’t tell you how genuinely sorry I was to see you up there, your little face frozen with fear, your bottom lip quivering and your eyes brimming with tears, looking at me with a face that quite clearly said, “You lied.”

When I tucked you into bed that night and felt my neck damp beneath your tears, I questioned why we were putting you through this, why we were putting us through this. For although your teachers told me that you were fine once you had settled, that you were just a very shy little girl struggling to settle in, that wasn’t you at all. They had never seen you dancing and singing and acting out your wild imagination. They had never seen you bounce around like a little ball of energy, being silly and giggly and a little bit cheeky. They had never seen you before to know that the sad little girl who came to school each day wasn’t my daughter at all.

And there was nothing that we didn’t try. We exhausted reward charts, special treats, the promise of days out, new toys and outright bribery. We quizzed you every single day, why don’t you like it baby? What is it that makes you so sad? And yet you would sit there, your big blue eyes searching mine, your little mouth down turned, silently pleading with me to just understand that this was so hard for you, that you couldn’t put it into words, that you were still just a baby after all.

There were times when little chinks of the old you crept in, during half term or on a weekend, when you would surprise me by leaving go of my hand as you ran ahead, looking back at me with that cheeky little smile that we hadn’t seen in such a long while. On Christmas morning when you jumped for joy at finally getting your Hatchimal, on your birthday when we surprised you with your very own iPad, at your party when you blew out your candles and the tiniest of smiles crept across your face. And those moments kept me going, reminded me that this wouldn’t last forever, that you were still in there, we just needed to find a way to help you regain your confidence.

In the spring when you announced that it was your class assembly, you were so excited for me to come and watch. You sang the songs to me at home on repeat, recited the play word for word, told me the story of the billy goats gruff and the big bad troll. And as each child stood up to say a line, some in a shy little whisper, some at the tops of their voices, I felt a lump brewing in my throat. I remember how the Mum sat beside me had nudged me with her elbow, knowing just how much this would mean to me, my camera at the ready to capture the moment. And yet when it came to your turn you remained seated, your little face rigid with fear, silently waiting as the child beside you stood up and said his line, skipping right past you, and that moment just broke me.

And so rightly or wrongly, I simply accepted that this was our life now, the tears becoming part of our daily routine, the tantrums and outbursts, the crying at bedtime, the refusal to join in or take part in all of the firsts that I had been so sure you would love. Each day the same, “Did you enjoy school today?”, I would ask you, silently hoping for a miracle. “No I hated it.” you would say, no discussion, no offerings of the things you had done, the friends you had played with, the food you had eaten or books you had read. And it was so hard for you, but it was hard for me too.

There were times when I dealt with it all wrong,  days I pandered to your tears, when I lingered in the playground for a little too long, waiting at the gate until you disappeared from view; the times when I lost my patience, when I snapped at you in sheer frustration, when I told you that it was tough, you had to go to school, that it was time you stopped acting like a baby. It was such a learning curve for all of us, but it was me who carried that burden, me who felt that guilt, me whose little hand you clung to each and every morning.

And yet out of nowhere, over the last few weeks, I’ve seen a spring in your step on the way to school some mornings, the sound of your laughter as you join your friends in the playground; I’ve found you letting go of my hand a little bit easier, swallowing your tears a little faster, taking in a toy for Show and Tell. I’ve noticed you telling me a little more about your day, the cookie you had with lunch, the book you read with your teacher, sharing a joke that one of the boys had told you, telling me about the games you played, the reason for the sticker you wear so proudly on your chest.

And so yesterday, on your very first sports day, I had silently hoped that this would be the turning point, the moment  that you would finally join in. Seeing you sat there in your blue t-shirt and pigtails, chatting away to your friend beside you, I couldn’t help but notice just how much you had grown, how much older you seemed, how breathtakingly beautiful you had become. And yet as your class stood up to race and I saw you remain seated, I felt my shoulders drop, a huge sigh of disappointment, tears pricking at my eyes.

And yet all of a sudden there you were, getting to your feet, edging towards the start line, lost in a sea of blue. And as you ran towards me, that determined little look on your face, your pigtails flying in the wind, I have never been more proud of you than I was in that moment.

Because regardless of how long it has taken you to reach this point, regardless of how big or small this achievement may seem to others, you, my darling girl, are amazing, in a million different ways, for a million different reasons. And yesterday you proved that you can do this.

So regardless of what happens in September, whether Year One brings new hurdles, new tears, new fears; whether no two days are ever the same, whether we start right back at the very beginning, one thing this year has taught me is that together, we can do this. 

Looks like we made it, look how far we’ve come my baby……

I am so very proud of you.

Love always,

Mummy

xxx

DIY Daddy Blog
Pink Pear Bear

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198 Comments

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Reader Interactions

Comments

  1. Laura says

    July 13, 2017 at 7:03 pm

    Oh my gosh!! You broke me!! Tears are rolling!! So pleased that she joined in and seems happier.

    Reply
    • Laura Dove says

      July 13, 2017 at 8:55 pm

      Ahh I’m sorry! I cried myself stupid writing this, what a rollercoaster it has been! xx

      Reply
  2. Allie says

    July 13, 2017 at 7:06 pm

    When you said she remained seated at first I was willing her to get up with all my heart and when I read that she did i cried. ❤

    Reply
    • Laura Dove says

      July 13, 2017 at 8:55 pm

      Ahh Allie that’s exactly how I felt too, it was such a huge moment. xxx

      Reply
  3. Emma says

    July 13, 2017 at 9:07 pm

    Oh my gosh Laura!!! I was the same as Allie! I was willing Eva to run. Bless her. I hope year one brings lots more smiles & more & more confidence. Lots of love x

    Reply
    • Laura Dove says

      July 15, 2017 at 10:19 pm

      I couldn’t believe it when she did it!! Proudest Mummy ever! xx

      Reply
  4. LDS's Mom says

    July 13, 2017 at 11:17 pm

    Oh my God! this article made me cry. Yes together you can do it! I salute your courage!

    Reply
    • Laura Dove says

      July 15, 2017 at 10:17 pm

      Ahh thank you so much. xx

      Reply
  5. Emma T says

    July 13, 2017 at 11:25 pm

    So glad there seems to have been a turning point in sports day. Long may it continue. I can think what it must have been like sending her all year with her not seeming happy or her normal self. Fingers crossed year q will be better. She’s going to have her sister there too in reception!

    She looks so much older since the start of the year too. Big change.

    Reply
    • Laura Dove says

      July 15, 2017 at 10:17 pm

      Thank you Emma, I completely agree, she looks to have aged so fast from day one to now! I’m sure having Megs there will really make a big difference, here’s hoping! xx

      Reply
  6. jen @ thehollyhockdoor says

    July 14, 2017 at 2:37 am

    Oh goodness what a terribly hard year for all of you! Such a brave little girl, but also such a brave mum to see her through it. Well done to both of you!! And what gorgeous photos! I particularly love the black and white – stunning! Visiting from #thatfridaylinky

    Reply
    • Laura Dove says

      July 15, 2017 at 10:16 pm

      Thank you Jen, that’s one of my favourite photos of Eva. xx

      Reply
  7. Emily says

    July 14, 2017 at 5:16 am

    I remember the first day our girls started nursery, it was very overwhelming for them, and us, as parents. Like Eva, there were tears and it took a good while for them to settle in. It was the same when they started reception. The long days were too much to start with, but they’ve come so far now and I quite believe that by the end of the year, they’ll be in year one! Ahh beautifully written post. Thanks for linking up with #ThatFridayLinky

    Reply
    • Laura Dove says

      July 15, 2017 at 10:15 pm

      I think that’s part of it, it’s such a huge change for them and that combined with the exhaustion can leave them feeling super emotional – and us too! Thank you for hosting. xx

      Reply
  8. Lauretta at Home and Horizon says

    July 14, 2017 at 6:27 am

    She’s lovely. One thing’s important, you’re on it together. 🙂

    Reply
    • Laura Dove says

      July 15, 2017 at 10:14 pm

      That’s the main thing isn’t it? xx

      Reply
  9. Nige says

    July 14, 2017 at 6:29 am

    This is beautiful Laura, the girls were hard work going into school last September lots of tears, but thankfully they settled by Xmas now I’m not sure they even noticed us, this brought a tear to eye reading this because it’s tough on one so young. Fabtastic post as always. Thanks for linking to the #THAT FRIDAY LINKY come back next week please

    Reply
    • Laura Dove says

      July 15, 2017 at 10:14 pm

      Thank you Nige, it’s been such a tough ten months but WE MADE IT!!! I have to do it all again in September with Megs so I’m really hoping that things are easier this time round! xx

      Reply
  10. Tamara Tanner says

    July 14, 2017 at 8:09 am

    Oh my word! This is so utterly touching! I too had a tear with you, these words speak millions and I am sure many, many parents feel the same way you are right now. I can assure you though that you have done nothing wrong. We all want the best for our little ones and sometimes our patience is tested but you mum are amazing and so is your prescious ray of sunshine!

    Reply
    • Laura Dove says

      July 15, 2017 at 10:12 pm

      Thank you so much. You do start to question yourself when the children struggle, wondering how I could have done things differently, how I could have made it easier for her. She has done amazingly well, I am such a proud Mummy. xx

      Reply
  11. Hannah says

    July 14, 2017 at 8:12 am

    Oh how cute! I’m yet to experience this haha! x

    Reply
    • Laura Dove says

      July 15, 2017 at 10:11 pm

      Ahh I hope if and when you do, it’s an easier experience! xx

      Reply
  12. Cathy Glynn says

    July 14, 2017 at 8:52 am

    Oh bless her, it is so hard letting go and coping with all the emotions of growing up. I am so glad she has turned a corner xx

    Reply
    • Laura Dove says

      July 15, 2017 at 10:10 pm

      Thank you Cathy, here’s hoping things continue to improve. xx

      Reply
  13. London Mumma says

    July 14, 2017 at 8:53 am

    What a beautiful and heart felt post. Well done to you both getting through the term .xx

    Reply
    • Laura Dove says

      July 15, 2017 at 10:10 pm

      Thank you so much. xx

      Reply
  14. Lynsey Ward says

    July 14, 2017 at 9:15 am

    Reading this put a lump in my throat. Reception is a big step. I hope she adjusts to year one well and enjoys being with her friends and having fun.

    Reply
    • Laura Dove says

      July 15, 2017 at 10:09 pm

      Thank you Lynsey. I really do hope so too. xx

      Reply
  15. Talya says

    July 14, 2017 at 9:37 am

    Ahhh what a lovely post you must be so proud we are about to enter this year I have no idea what will happen will have to check in with you at the end of our reception year xoxo

    Reply
    • Laura Dove says

      July 15, 2017 at 10:09 pm

      Ahh good luck Talya. I’m sure that you will be fine, and if not then at least you know there is hope of things getting easier! xx

      Reply
  16. Helen says

    July 14, 2017 at 9:41 am

    Oh my goodness I’m sitting here covered in goosebumps! I felt so bad for her and you reading this, and so happy when she finally did it! Simply gorgeous post. (And you’ve done better than me – my daughter was one of those never look back kind of kids, but my son was reluctant to throw himself into school life. He did in the end, but he cried every sports day until year 3. So well done you!) 😀

    Reply
    • Laura Dove says

      July 15, 2017 at 10:09 pm

      Ahh thank you Helen. My eldest never looked back either so this was a huge shock! I’m hoping September is easier, either way at least I’m a little more prepared! xx

      Reply
  17. Claire says

    July 14, 2017 at 10:08 am

    I’m sorry this has been such a difficult year. I’m so glad things have improved. I can imagine how relieved and proud you would have been at sports day. My eldest starts school in September and she is a timid child so I do worry this is how she will react.

    Reply
    • Laura Dove says

      July 15, 2017 at 10:06 pm

      Thank you. I think sometimes the ones you expect to struggle, don’t! Eva was VERY excited for school so this came as a huge shock! xx

      Reply
  18. Lu Lovely says

    July 14, 2017 at 10:13 am

    This post made my weep. My little girl is leaving Primary school forever next week. They grow so quickly, watch every moment ❤

    Reply
    • Laura Dove says

      July 15, 2017 at 10:05 pm

      Ahh emotional times. My second son would have been leaving this week too, very bittersweet times. xx

      Reply
  19. Jayne @ Sticky Mud and Belly Laughs says

    July 14, 2017 at 10:25 am

    Beautifully written Laura! It’s heart-wrenching seeing our babies upset isn’t it?
    So glad to hear that Eva has settled in now 🙂 xx

    Reply
    • Laura Dove says

      July 15, 2017 at 10:05 pm

      Thank you Jayne, absolutely heartbreaking! xx

      Reply
  20. Hayley's little things says

    July 14, 2017 at 10:35 am

    It suddenly dawned on me reading this that next year my little daisy does to nursery! How is that possible ???

    Reply
    • Laura Dove says

      July 15, 2017 at 10:05 pm

      Ahhh it’s so scary how fast the time goes!

      Reply
  21. Kayleigh Watkins says

    July 14, 2017 at 11:36 am

    She is absolutely beautiful, my Megan is in reception, she is anxious about going into year 2 in September with a new teacher, she has really settled this year, I’m dreading her 1st day in September, but she is going to see her new class and teacher today so hopefully it will ease her worries xxx

    Reply
    • Laura Dove says

      July 15, 2017 at 10:03 pm

      Ahh thank you. It’s always a worry starting school or starting a new class, I really hope that Eva, and your Megan, adapt well in September. xx

      Reply
  22. Helen says

    July 14, 2017 at 11:38 am

    Go Eva! It’s so lovely to read that Eva has settled into school now and taken part in sports day – you must be one proud mama 🙂

    Reply
    • Laura Dove says

      July 15, 2017 at 10:01 pm

      Ahh thank you Helen! Super proud Mama!! xx

      Reply
  23. hayley balozi says

    July 14, 2017 at 12:00 pm

    She is so beautiful! And very lucky to have a Mum so dedicated to her feelings, you’re doing a fantastic job. Hope she has a wonderful summer and is all ready to go back in September x x #ThatFridayLinky

    Reply
    • Laura Dove says

      July 15, 2017 at 10:01 pm

      Ahh thank you Hayley. It’s been a rough ride for her adjusting to school but her sister will join her in September which I do think will help! xx

      Reply
  24. Samantha Bye says

    July 14, 2017 at 12:47 pm

    Eva is so so beautiful! Such a gorgeous little girl. I had moments of shy-ness when I was younger, but I gradually grew out of it. The real change came when my mum enlisted me in dance classes around seven!

    Reply
    • Laura Dove says

      July 15, 2017 at 9:58 pm

      Ahh thank you so much, she really is so beautiful inside and out. I was the same, I had no confidence as a child either, I think we all find it eventually…some just take their time! xx

      Reply
  25. Rachel Neal says

    July 14, 2017 at 1:08 pm

    Oh my gosh what a year, I really hope year 1 carries on bringing easier times with school. its heartbreaking when they cry and get upset. We were lucky and never had any tears BUT i can understand how hard it is for some children its a massive step in their life.

    Reply
    • Laura Dove says

      July 15, 2017 at 9:58 pm

      Thank you Rachel. My son was the same, never looked back and loved school the whole way through. Eva is very much a Mummys girl so I guess she just wanted to be with me more than she wanted to be at school some days. xx

      Reply
  26. jodie filogomo says

    July 14, 2017 at 1:09 pm

    What a uplifting post, Laura!! I hurt along with you and cheered at the end!!
    XOXO
    Jodie
    http://www.jtouchofstyle.com
    #FabFridayPost

    Reply
    • Laura Dove says

      July 15, 2017 at 9:57 pm

      Ahh thank you Jodie. You can imagine just how lovely it was to see her run at sports day, I have never been prouder. xx

      Reply
  27. Jenny says

    July 14, 2017 at 1:30 pm

    It’s never nice to see your children unhappy but glad it all worked out in the end.

    Reply
    • Laura Dove says

      July 15, 2017 at 9:57 pm

      Thank you Jenny, it’s been very hard at times. xx

      Reply
  28. Dinesh says

    July 14, 2017 at 1:56 pm

    Your struggle almost broke my heart.. I think all parents can relate with what you have been through

    Reply
    • Laura Dove says

      July 15, 2017 at 9:56 pm

      Ahh thank you Dinesh, it was a tough journey but we made it, that’s the main thing right? xx

      Reply
  29. Chel C says

    July 14, 2017 at 3:03 pm

    Aw you must be so proud! I love this time of year when all the children are getting ready to break up for the summer holidays and prepare themselves for entering the “big class”

    Reply
    • Laura Dove says

      July 15, 2017 at 9:56 pm

      I’m very proud. My youngest daughter starts in September too so we have all of this to come again! xx

      Reply
  30. Ti says

    July 14, 2017 at 4:17 pm

    Just beautiful. Well done Eva and well done, Laura. It”s so hard to see our little ones struggle especially when we know we can’t fix it but your love and support helped Eva more than you can know. In her own time and her own way, and with the unstinting love of her amazing mum, she did it. ?

    Reply
    • Laura Dove says

      July 15, 2017 at 9:55 pm

      Thank you so much, I am so proud of us both for getting through it! Sports day was amazing, seeing her join in after all of these months watching from the sidelines, my proudest moment yet. xxx

      Reply
  31. Martin Lee says

    July 14, 2017 at 5:07 pm

    Will be here a year in September. not looking forward to it! #thatfridaylinky

    Reply
    • Laura Dove says

      July 15, 2017 at 9:54 pm

      Ahh I really hope that things go a little easier for you! xx

      Reply
  32. Nelu Mbingu says

    July 14, 2017 at 6:02 pm

    You have a very beautiful child and good on you for savoring every moment of your children’s life. Soon they will be all grown up, and these will be the memories you look back at with fondness.

    Reply
    • Laura Dove says

      July 15, 2017 at 9:54 pm

      Thank you, she is very precious that’s for sure. xx

      Reply
  33. Musings of a tired mummy...zzz... says

    July 14, 2017 at 8:26 pm

    Oh dear! School is such an upheaval and compulsory! 🙁 my kids have had no similar issues and Anya can’t wait to start year R in September. Matthew is more nervous about going to juniors as he won’t be with all of his friends

    Reply
    • Laura Dove says

      July 15, 2017 at 9:53 pm

      Yes it can be really hard, especially for children who lack confidence. Eva couldn’t wait to go so it was a huge shock when she struggled! xx

      Reply
  34. Angela Milnes says

    July 14, 2017 at 8:32 pm

    What a lovely letter. 😉 I think this is great and what a great first year! 🙂 I loved reading about sports day! They make proud moments.

    Reply
    • Laura Dove says

      July 15, 2017 at 9:53 pm

      Thank you, sports day was the proudest moment! xx

      Reply
  35. Sierra says

    July 14, 2017 at 8:35 pm

    Aww this story made so sad but I’m glad it finished with a happy and inspiring ending. All of the pictures of your daughter are precious. Thank you for sharing your story as I am sure there are many out there who can relate.

    Reply
    • Laura Dove says

      July 15, 2017 at 9:52 pm

      Ahh thank you Sierra, I think a lot of children struggle with starting school, it was lovely to be able to share a happy outcome. xx

      Reply
  36. Mrs Lighty says

    July 14, 2017 at 9:06 pm

    Oh this made me cry! I often think of Eva when I see your pics on Instagram and wonder how she’s getting on. It sounds so, so tough on all of you, but you shouldn’t beat yourself up. You’ll get there. All of you. Well done Eva, I hope next year is a little easier, a little better xxx

    Reply
    • Laura Dove says

      July 15, 2017 at 9:50 pm

      Ahh sorry lovely, I cried a lot writing it. It has been tough to say the least but she is thriving in her school work and her confidence is coming on leaps and bounds. Sometimes it just takes some children a little longer. xx

      Reply
  37. Laura - dear bear and beany says

    July 14, 2017 at 9:10 pm

    My heart has gone out to you so many times over this last year and there really has been nothing that has worked for Eva, except for time. She clearly just needed time to accept this new life at school. I really hope that it continues in September. But for now enjoy your holiday and summer with your children at home x

    Reply
    • Laura Dove says

      July 15, 2017 at 9:49 pm

      Thank you Laura. I still can’t believe that the end is in sight, it’s been a lonnnnnng year in some ways!! Never have I needed a holiday more! xx

      Reply
  38. Little B & Me says

    July 14, 2017 at 9:54 pm

    Oh darling what a beautiful post!

    I struggled a lot in reception, this has given me some hope for when B starts nursery.
    So glad little one is now more herself, I just want to give her a huge cuddle!

    Reply
    • Laura Dove says

      July 15, 2017 at 9:48 pm

      Ahh thank you so much. I don’t really remember reception year but I was quite a shy child and lacked in confidence. I’m hoping September will continue to see an improvement in her confidence too, fingers crossed. xx

      Reply
  39. Lauren Scrapbook Blog says

    July 14, 2017 at 10:35 pm

    Awww Laura! This was so lovely. I am so glad it looks like the struggle is getting less, and hope that you can both enjoy the holidays and that September brings more school enjoyment!

    Reply
    • Laura Dove says

      July 15, 2017 at 9:47 pm

      Thank you Lauren. It’s been a tough year but we are ending it in a way better situation than we started! xx

      Reply
  40. Kimberly C. says

    July 14, 2017 at 11:20 pm

    This gave me chills and put a big smile on my face. I can so relate. Just seeing your child grow up is amazing and wonderful. They manage to conquer so much on their own and we are their biggest cheerleaders. Beautifully written. Best I’ve read all day!

    Reply
    • Laura Dove says

      July 15, 2017 at 9:47 pm

      Ahh thank you so much, that’s so lovely of you to say. I am such a proud Mummy, she has done amazingly well! xx

      Reply
  41. John Adams says

    July 15, 2017 at 5:18 am

    Oh wow, that’s quite a tough start. Glad ot hear the tail end of the year was better. Her’s hoping for a good time in Year !. Waving my youngest of to school in September so we’ll see how that goes. #thatfridaylinky

    Reply
    • Laura Dove says

      July 15, 2017 at 9:46 pm

      Ahh I’m sure they will be fine, most children settled so fast. My youngest daughter starts this September so I’m hoping we don’t have a repeat! xx

      Reply
  42. Thomas Sanderson says

    July 15, 2017 at 7:00 am

    This post really had me tearing up. I know it can be tough to start a new chapter in a kids life, but it’s nice to see you writing with the understanding of what your daughters going through. I love that you have gone through this experience together.

    Reply
    • Laura Dove says

      July 15, 2017 at 9:42 pm

      Thank you Thomas. I have been with her every step of the way and that’s the most important thing isn’t it? And she with me, we have really helped eachother through it! xx

      Reply
  43. Natalie says

    July 15, 2017 at 7:26 am

    Oh wow! This post! What an emotional rollercoaster you’ve both been on! I literally felt every word and really hope your Year 1 is a little easier xx

    Reply
    • Laura Dove says

      July 15, 2017 at 9:40 pm

      Thank you Natalie, it’s been a real rollercoaster but we made it! Three more school days and we survived! Yay! xx

      Reply
  44. Elinor Hill aka Beach Hut Cook says

    July 15, 2017 at 9:16 am

    So pleased everything is working out now but boy what a worrying time for you. Isn’t she just brilliant facing up to her fears and conquering them? Elinor x

    Reply
    • Laura Dove says

      July 15, 2017 at 9:39 pm

      Thank you Elinor, it has been a rollercoaster year that’s for sure! xx

      Reply
  45. Kirsty says

    July 15, 2017 at 10:50 am

    What a journey you’ve both been through. I hope school next year is better for the both of you. There are certainly some good times to look on tho I beat the first nativity was great to watch as a parent.

    Reply
    • Laura Dove says

      July 15, 2017 at 9:38 pm

      Thank you so much. I’m just glad that she appears to slowly be regaining her confidence. xx

      Reply
  46. Jess @ Nora&Co says

    July 15, 2017 at 2:57 pm

    This must have been so, so difficult for you. My little girl is the same age as yours and this would have broken me. I’m so glad she’s started to love school! Hopefully year 1 will be her year! Thanks for sharing xx

    Reply
    • Laura Dove says

      July 15, 2017 at 9:35 pm

      Thank you Jess, it was SO tough, I wasn’t sure we’d survive that first year to be honest! She is definitely improving though and her confidence is coming back, I really hope she continues to thrive. xx

      Reply
  47. Nicole - thelittlestdarlings says

    July 15, 2017 at 3:00 pm

    Laura this got me all teary. Next year Lucas starts school and I just cant believe it. I cant believe how quickly the first 4-5 years goes. What a lovely post though.

    Reply
    • Laura Dove says

      July 15, 2017 at 9:34 pm

      Thanks lovely. Time goes way too fast doesn’t it? Megs starts this September and Harry next year, I feel like I blinked and missed it. xx

      Reply
  48. Lilinha says

    July 15, 2017 at 9:13 pm

    Reception is usually a challenge for some children as there are so many new things for them.

    Reply
    • Laura Dove says

      July 15, 2017 at 9:31 pm

      Yes, it can take some children much longer to settle, I had no idea this time last year! xx

      Reply
  49. Amanda says

    July 15, 2017 at 9:31 pm

    Wow what a year it’s been for you all! So glad she’s doing better in school and starting to take part in activities more. Here’s to a great start to the next year for her too!

    Reply
    • Laura Dove says

      July 15, 2017 at 10:20 pm

      Thank you Amanda, me too. It’s been a rough ride! xx

      Reply
  50. Sarah says

    July 15, 2017 at 9:41 pm

    Oh my gosh my heart. I’m crying. I’m so sorry if was so hard for you both, but it is a HUGE adjustment for them isn’t it. I’m glad it all worked out, and you’ve got your happy little girl back. Truthfully though, I’m dreading when my lttle ones start school. 🙁

    Reply
  51. Rishi Malar says

    July 15, 2017 at 11:44 pm

    It is really hard for some children to accept the changes, isn’t it!? DD1 was just as your little girl for the first few days but has settled quickly! My younger one was too cool to let me go on her first day but the only thing she didn’t about school is staying there for full time! She would be a very happy child if she could just follow the Nursery timings throughout or if she could just atleast leave after lunch :). Until this last Friday she had the complaint that the school is really long for her and there are 3 more days to go for this term! I really hope the summer break helps her to change the mood a little!

    Reply
    • Laura Dove says

      July 16, 2017 at 9:05 pm

      Yes! That was so like Eva! She only ever did part time at nursery so it was a huge deal going to full days! I think my youngest daughter will struggle with that too, she gets so tired still! She starts in September so I’m really hoping that she settles faster than Eva did! xx

      Reply
  52. Vijay says

    July 16, 2017 at 4:09 am

    Heart melting story. I like your confidence that you have on your child. That’s most important. I am very provided you and your daughter. Look forward to reading more from you.

    Reply
    • Laura Dove says

      July 16, 2017 at 9:02 pm

      Thank you so much, I am very proud of how far she has come. xx

      Reply
  53. Alana - Burnished Chaos says

    July 16, 2017 at 6:12 am

    This post well and truly broke me and I’m in tears. I went through exactly the same thing with my son and it took till year two for the tears to stop on a morning. He’s just finishing year 3 now and he has come on leaps and bounds and comes out of school laughing most days, but ask him about his day and he’ll stay it was horrible. He also still struggles with sports days and school plays. We had a lot of tears this week as he had to perform his school play four times and yet at home and with his friends he is so confident and outgoing. It’s so hard watching them go through it but all we can do is be there to reassure, listen and support. So glad she got up and joined in, fingers crossed it was a turning point and year 1 will be better for her x

    Reply
    • Laura Dove says

      July 16, 2017 at 9:02 pm

      Ahh thank you Alana, although I am so sorry that you are going through the same. That is so like Eva, she has so much confidence with her siblings and even with her friends, but school has just really set her back somehow. I think we underestimate just how huge a milestone it is for them, I remember when I went away to University and it was massively overwhelming, I suppose it’s the same for them, it just takes adjustment….some longer than others. xx

      Reply
  54. Baby Isabella says

    July 16, 2017 at 4:11 pm

    Sounds like it’s been a big adjustment for you guys but glad it seems to be better. We’ve got this rollercoaster of emotions and upheaval to go this year as I start BIG school in September! eeeeek

    Reply
    • Laura Dove says

      July 16, 2017 at 8:53 pm

      Ahh bless. Megan starts big school in September too, I hope we don’t have to go through it all again! xx

      Reply
  55. Helen says

    July 16, 2017 at 6:16 pm

    Oh gosh what an absolute roller coaster of a year this must have been for you both! I’m so so pleased she is finally settling in and joining in all the fun with her friends. Hopefully year one won’t take as long to settle in.

    Reply
    • Laura Dove says

      July 16, 2017 at 8:52 pm

      Thank you Helen, I really do hope so. xx

      Reply
  56. Susie/So Happy In Town says

    July 16, 2017 at 8:12 pm

    What a lovely letter, and look how far your little girl has come. When my eldest started school it was a very similar story and for weeks she used to cling to me and I had to tell her for the entire year that she could look up at our house (luckily we live very near school) and I’d be there in the house waving at her, even if she couldn’t see me. Used to break my heart how hard she found it to settle in, when all her little classmates seemed to be OK. But then in year 1 everything clicked and it sounds like your little girl is getting there. Big changes for these little people #FabFridayPost

    Reply
    • Laura Dove says

      July 16, 2017 at 8:51 pm

      Ahh Susie thank you for this, it really does make me feel hopeful that the same will happen for Eva. Megan will join Eva in September so I think that this will really help things, fingers crossed. It’s so hard when they don’t enjoy school, even more so when everybody else seems to! xx

      Reply
  57. Rachel In Real Life says

    July 16, 2017 at 8:16 pm

    Oh goodness me what a year! I’m so glad she has finally settled in. And this is so beautifully written.

    Reply
    • Laura Dove says

      July 16, 2017 at 8:48 pm

      Thank you Rachel. xx

      Reply
  58. Fashionaire She by J. Shan'Trice says

    July 17, 2017 at 5:17 am

    It will get better! With love and support from family she will come out stronger for going through it. She is adorable, by the way.

    Reply
    • Laura Dove says

      July 17, 2017 at 5:49 pm

      Ahh thank you so much, she really is a beauty inside and out. xx

      Reply
  59. Becca Talbot says

    July 17, 2017 at 6:37 am

    Oh Laura, I’m sat on the train with a huge lump in my throats after reading this 🙁 not having my own children, I can only imagine how difficult the last year has been for you. But you’ve described it so well, imagning the distress and the tears and the frustration isn’t hard. I hope when term time comes around in September that she’ll be happy to return to school. And if not, like you said, you’ll just go through it all again, together x

    Reply
    • Laura Dove says

      July 17, 2017 at 5:48 pm

      Ahh thank you Becca, I really hope that September sees her continue to grow in confidence, what a year we have had! Her sister starts in September too so I think that will make a huge difference, the two of them are so close and I think part of the reason she has struggled is due to missing her so much. xx

      Reply
  60. Wendy says

    July 17, 2017 at 7:44 am

    It feels like every time I read your blog I have to fight back tears Laura! I have followed Eva’s journey on your insta and know just how hard it’s been for you all. I’m so happy sports day went well and you’re starting to see your happy girl again. I hope you all have a wonderful summer, you deserve it xx #postsfromtheheart

    Reply
    • Laura Dove says

      July 17, 2017 at 5:47 pm

      Ahh Wendy, thank you so much for following Eva’s story this last year. It has been such a rollercoaster but I am SO proud of how far she has come. Have a wonderful summer too lovely lady. xxx

      Reply
  61. Pam says

    July 17, 2017 at 8:20 am

    Oh Gosh! a little warning next time! I am in tears! So happy your little girl has adjusted to school and she is now happy as ever! My daughter is not in school yet, but I can only imagine how hard it must have been for you guys. Your daughter is absolutely adorable, God bless you 🙂 Thanks for sharing!

    Reply
    • Laura Dove says

      July 17, 2017 at 5:46 pm

      Ahh bless you Pam, thank you so much for reading. I really hope that when the time comes for your daughter to start school she settles well. It’s a rough ride when they don’t! xx

      Reply
  62. Kara says

    July 17, 2017 at 8:59 am

    I am so sorry to hear she has found school hard, it is so difficult to watch them struggle but I love that she found the courage to participate in sports day. It took Isaac 3 years to properly settle at school and we are having similar issues at his swimming club. Yesterday was his first gala and he just sat, frozen in fear and wouldn’t get in the pool……..I know that will some encouragement and perseverance we will get there too

    Reply
    • Laura Dove says

      July 17, 2017 at 5:33 pm

      Ah thank you Kara. I’m sorry Isaac struggled too, I think it just takes some children longer than others. That’s EXACTLY like Eva, she is amazing at so many things but lacks the confidence to do them in public, I was over the moon when she joined in with sports day, huge step in the right direction that’s for sure. xx

      Reply
  63. Petite Words says

    July 17, 2017 at 9:50 am

    Such a surreal moment right! #globalblogging

    Reply
    • Laura Dove says

      July 17, 2017 at 5:31 pm

      Absolutely, but we did it! Yay! xx

      Reply
  64. David Elliott says

    July 17, 2017 at 12:09 pm

    Such a beautiful post about your relationship and cheering on of your daughter. It’s so hard to see them struggle sometimes but so gratifying when they make strides.

    Reply
    • Laura Dove says

      July 17, 2017 at 5:30 pm

      Thanks David, it really is the best feeling in the world when they find their wings. xx

      Reply
  65. Mrs Tubbs says

    July 17, 2017 at 12:20 pm

    We forget how big a change it is for them – new people, places, routine, stuff to learn – and how small they are. I’m so pleased for you all that she settled in the end and hopefully will feel better about school after the summer break. It’s so hard though, because they have make their way, go to school etc and there’s so little we can do to help. And you feel so powerless … Sending hugs to you all

    Reply
    • Laura Dove says

      July 17, 2017 at 5:29 pm

      Thank you, you’re right, I think we under estimate just how HUGE the transition can be and I guess it takes some children longer than others. It’s been a really tough year but we have made it to the other side, that’s the most important thing right? xx

      Reply
  66. Sarah says

    July 17, 2017 at 12:21 pm

    Yay, well done Eva you little star – what a tough year you’ve had but well done you (and mummy) Sarah #FabFridayPost

    Reply
    • Laura Dove says

      July 17, 2017 at 5:27 pm

      Ahh thank you Sarah, so proud of how far she has come. xx

      Reply
  67. Fiona Cambouropoulos says

    July 17, 2017 at 1:27 pm

    Well done Eva, reception year is such a huge adjustment and such a big step. What a lot of growing up in one year! Have a lovely well deserved summer with the family before year 1. #BigPinkLink

    Reply
    • Laura Dove says

      July 17, 2017 at 5:27 pm

      Thank you Fiona. We are going to enjoy every moment of the summer holidays together! xx

      Reply
  68. Jenni says

    July 17, 2017 at 2:53 pm

    Oh bless her, that must have been so hard for you all

    Reply
    • Laura Dove says

      July 17, 2017 at 5:26 pm

      Super hard but we finally got somewhere! xx

      Reply
  69. Katy (What Katy Said) says

    July 17, 2017 at 5:12 pm

    Oh my goodness this has just had me in tears! I once had a little girl in my class who took about a year to get there, and actually it took me years to love school. I cannot imagine what you’ve had to go through but I am so glad she is getting there now xx

    Reply
    • Laura Dove says

      July 17, 2017 at 5:26 pm

      Ahh thank you Katy. I loved school from day one, and my eldest too so I really wasn’t prepared for this. Today we had no tears WHATSOEVER at line up, very proud Mummy that’s for sure. xx

      Reply
  70. Evelina says

    July 17, 2017 at 8:29 pm

    Oh no!! Your post had me in tears. It must have been so hard on her and you, what a hard year. Hope the summer will bring many great moments and the next year will be much easier.

    Reply
  71. Jo - Cup of Toast says

    July 17, 2017 at 10:35 pm

    This made me feel so sad. I think school is so hard for some little ones and they do take a while to fully relax into it. I hope that you have a lovely summer holiday #bigpinklink

    Reply
    • Laura Dove says

      July 18, 2017 at 8:41 pm

      Ahh thank you Jo. I’m really hoping that we have turned a corner, fingers crossed! xxx

      Reply
  72. A Norfolk Mummy says

    July 18, 2017 at 7:23 am

    Oh my goodness I’m not emotionally stable enough to be reading this!! I’m so so so glad that she is starting to enjoy school a bit more and your seeing passed the fog. It must have been so difficult for all of you. #triumphanttales

    Reply
    • Laura Dove says

      July 18, 2017 at 12:56 pm

      Ahh thanks lovely, it was so hard at times but I am so proud of how far she has come. xx

      Reply
  73. mums' army says

    July 18, 2017 at 7:40 am

    Beautiful pictures!! So pleased that Eva finally found her way and settled into her new school life. It must be such a huge transition starting school. My eldest starts school nursery in September so we have another year before he starts Reception and I really hope he doesnt cry when I drop him off as I don’t think my emotions could handle it! I really hope she continues to thrive at school and enjoys it more and more xx Nicky #DreamTeam

    Reply
    • Laura Dove says

      July 18, 2017 at 12:56 pm

      Thank you Nicky. It’s HEARTBREAKING when they cry each morning, I think it would break the coldest of hearts!! It did get easier, I think I realised that although it was hard to leave her, she was fine whilst she was there, and now I think we are finally out the other side. I’m sure your son will be just fine, every other child in Eva’s class was! xx

      Reply
  74. Fran Back With A Bump says

    July 18, 2017 at 8:09 am

    What a gorgeous reflection on the first year of school. It really is a big learning curve and a big step. She’s such a gorgeous girl like her mummy!! #triumphanttales x

    Reply
    • Laura Dove says

      July 18, 2017 at 12:54 pm

      Ahh thank you so much Fran. What a rollercoaster we have had, one more school morning to go!! xx

      Reply
  75. Ali Duke says

    July 18, 2017 at 10:54 am

    Aww, bless her. This is such an emotional post, bought tears to my eyes. I can’t imagine the joy you must have felt seeing her get up and run that race x
    #TriumphantTales

    Reply
    • Laura Dove says

      July 18, 2017 at 12:53 pm

      Thank you Ali, it was the greatest feeling ever. I cry every time I think about it! xx

      Reply
  76. Lucy At Home says

    July 18, 2017 at 1:25 pm

    Oh gosh I have tears streaming down my face! She has come do far and done so well. You have every right to be proud of her. We had our own moment like this just last week. Well done mummy and Eva! #dreamteam

    Reply
    • Laura Dove says

      July 18, 2017 at 8:40 pm

      Ahh thank you Lucy, I really was so proud of her, it was a HUGE thing for her to run that race!! It’s so hard when they struggle to settle. xx

      Reply
  77. Kirsty Dee says

    July 18, 2017 at 1:43 pm

    oh wow what a year. I’m so happy you got there in the end. Big hugs x

    Reply
    • Laura Dove says

      July 18, 2017 at 8:39 pm

      We certainly did, thank you. xx

      Reply
  78. Via Bella says

    July 18, 2017 at 2:31 pm

    WOW! Just wow! That reads like it was hard to write. That is super tough watching those first years. Somehow, school doesn’t yield well for some kids. I wish for the best for this coming year for you guys!

    Reply
    • Laura Dove says

      July 18, 2017 at 8:38 pm

      Ah thank you, I really hope so too. I’m a very proud Mummy! xx

      Reply
  79. Mary @ Over 40 and a Mum to One says

    July 18, 2017 at 7:30 pm

    Oh bless her heart, so much of your post took me back to our own Reception class experiences. Although your daughter did better than my son on the Sports Day front. We’ve certainly found school traumatic and it’s only really been this year in Year Two that the tears have gone and he’s joined in. I hope Year One is a happier experience for you both #SchoolDays

    Reply
    • Laura Dove says

      July 18, 2017 at 8:37 pm

      Ahh Mary I’m so sorry you’re son has had the same issues but it’s always a comfort to know that it’s not just my child. I really hope that September brings happier times for Eva and your son, school is such an amazing time for them, if only they could see that! xx

      Reply
  80. Colette says

    July 18, 2017 at 8:01 pm

    Oh Laura this made me cry. What a tough year you’ve both had. The move to Reception can be so hard. Hopefully she will be feeling more settled moving into Year 1 x

    Reply
    • Laura Dove says

      July 18, 2017 at 8:37 pm

      Thanks Colette, she’s had a rough ride! I’m really hoping that with Megan joining her in September that things get easier! xx

      Reply
  81. Sarah MumofThree World says

    July 19, 2017 at 7:58 am

    You had me in tears reading this! What a tough year you’ve both had, but how wonderful to see that change at sports day.
    Do you read Over 40 and Mum to One’s blog? This story reminds me a lot of her journey. Her son is at the end of Year 2 now.
    Popping over from Schooldays linky.

    Reply
    • Laura Dove says

      July 20, 2017 at 2:19 pm

      Oh no I haven’t heard her story! I will absolutely head over there, it will be good to read it from another year on! Thank you for visiting! Xx

      Reply
  82. Surekha says

    July 19, 2017 at 8:33 pm

    Very heart touching post. You made me teared eye. You have all reason to be proud of Eva. She did really well. I hope next year is smooth for you guys

    Reply
    • Laura Dove says

      July 20, 2017 at 2:13 pm

      Ahh thank you. She is a very special little girl, here’s to her confidence soaring in September. Xx

      Reply
  83. Cheryl @ Tea or Wine says

    July 21, 2017 at 10:25 am

    Gosh, you’ve made me cry again. And it could so easily have been my eldest that you were describing. Like Eva, my daughter Alice had a terrible time settling into school. Crying, waking up in the night and generally hating it. She is an August baby so I put it down to her being too young for school. I think some of them just take longer to adapt to the routine of being away from you. I’m so happy that Eva seems much happier and more confident. You may find you’ll have a wobble to begin with, but I bet Year One will be smoother sailing for you. #KCACOLS xx

    Reply
    • Laura Dove says

      July 21, 2017 at 1:33 pm

      Ah thank you. I remember you saying that Alice had struggled, it’s always a comfort to hear that others haven’t taken to school as easily as others. Eva was the only one in her class who cried each morning so I felt quite isolated at times. I really hope with Megs starting in September that it makes a big difference to how she settles. Fingers crossed. Xx

      Reply
  84. kristin mccarthy says

    July 21, 2017 at 1:35 pm

    I am hoping against all hopes for a miracle come Sept. I just know the twins are gonna struggle in preschool and it’s going to destroy me. Thanks for linking up to #globalblogging.

    Reply
  85. Mummy Times Two says

    July 22, 2017 at 9:34 am

    I am so glad that Sports Day brought about a wonderful end to your year. That first year can be so challenging for children and for parents. Here is hoping that the spring continues into year one x

    Reply
    • Laura Dove says

      July 30, 2017 at 5:48 pm

      Thank you lovely. I think having Megs with her in September will make a huge difference! Fingers crossed! xx

      Reply
  86. Madeline (This Glorious Life) says

    July 22, 2017 at 10:15 am

    Oh I was in tears reading this, it’s so so hard seeing them not enjoying school. I was so relieved and happy to read at the end that she did join in at sports day! Hope next year is easier on all of you. x #KCACOLS

    Reply
    • Laura Dove says

      July 30, 2017 at 5:48 pm

      Ahh thank you Madeline, it was the proudest moment when she got up and ran. Her little face just made my heart BURST! xx

      Reply
  87. Jaki says

    July 22, 2017 at 12:44 pm

    Oh I am so pleased she has come out of herself. This is the one part of the reception year that I’m dreading. It’s such a big step for them all. Little Man can be quite shy and I do worry how he will cope. He seemed to enjoy his transition day so I’m hoping it’s not just a one off. This is a really beautiful piece – as always. Thanks so much for linking up to #TriumphantTales – hope to see you again on Tuesday!

    Reply
    • Laura Dove says

      July 30, 2017 at 5:46 pm

      Thank you Jaki. It’s been such a tough year, you just never know how they are going to cope with it do you? Megs starts in September too so I’m hoping she settles well, if the two of them cry each morning it will destroy me!! xx

      Reply
  88. Jenny (Accidental Hipster Mum) says

    July 23, 2017 at 6:58 am

    This must have been SUCH a tough year! I don’t think I’d have been able to cope if this was my daughter, bless her! I’m so glad she seems to be slowly moving in the right direction. My son is super shy and he’s starting nursery in September, I’m worried he’ll take a long time to settle too!

    Thanks so much for linking up at #KCACOLS. Hope you come back again next time!

    Reply
    • Laura Dove says

      July 30, 2017 at 5:37 pm

      Thank you Jenny, it was SO tough!! I honestly wondered if we were doing the right thing, whether we should have deferred her place for a year, whether home schooling was an option, I used to lie awake at night trying to find the answers. I think all it really took was a little time, and maybe more time still, but her sister joins her in September and I really hope that helps!! xx

      Reply
      • Jenny (Accidental Hipster Mum) says

        August 2, 2017 at 11:03 pm

        I’m sure it will, I can imagine having a sibling at the same school can be a massive comfort. My daughter went to a pre-school run by her paternal grandma, then school on the same site so I think that’s why she settled so well x

        Reply
        • Laura Dove says

          August 3, 2017 at 8:02 pm

          Oh yes I can imagine that did help. My mum was a dinner lady at my primary school and I used to look forward to lunch time when I would see her. xx

          Reply
  89. Louise Pink Pear Bear says

    July 23, 2017 at 7:41 am

    Oh Laura, you know I’ve had a similar experience. We had some issues at the start of year one but I can honestly say that she enjoys it now and is genuinely happy and enjoys school. It’s nearly broken me on several occasions but it’s finally ok. I hope it is the same for you honey. Thanks for linking up with the #bigpinklink this week.

    Reply
    • Laura Dove says

      July 30, 2017 at 5:35 pm

      Thanks Louise, it’s so hard isn’t it? I’ve had to put it to the back of my mind over the summer and just hope that come September things will be very different with Megs being there too. God help me if she struggles, the two of them will destroy me! xx

      Reply
  90. babyfoote says

    July 23, 2017 at 8:34 pm

    Oh my gosh! What a rollercoaster! Happy for you that your daughter seemed to be a bit happier at the end of term.

    I hope you have a fantastic summer break.

    Reply
    • Laura Dove says

      July 30, 2017 at 5:28 pm

      Thank you, I really hope so too! xx

      Reply
  91. Amanda says

    July 24, 2017 at 8:16 am

    So beautifully written. What a shame it took the whole year. Fingers crossed year one will be easier. My girls are only two and the thought of sending them off terrifies me. We’ll get through it one day at a time like you did. Thanks for sharing and gave a lovely summer x

    Reply
    • Laura Dove says

      July 30, 2017 at 5:25 pm

      Thank you Amanda, it’s been a long year that’s for sure! Some children adapt easier, my second daughter starts school in September so I am hoping she settles a little faster than Eva did!! xx

      Reply
  92. Crummy Mummy says

    July 24, 2017 at 8:20 am

    So glad you’ve come out the other end – what a year! #postsfromtheheart

    Reply
    • Laura Dove says

      July 30, 2017 at 5:24 pm

      Thank you – me too! xx

      Reply
  93. Vanessa says

    July 24, 2017 at 5:06 pm

    Oh gosh this post brought a little lump to my throat. Just goes to show that they all get there in their own time, and that really is perfect timing.

    Reply
    • Laura Dove says

      July 30, 2017 at 5:23 pm

      Thank you Vanessa, you’re so right. Some children it just takes a little longer than others. xx

      Reply
  94. One Messy Mama says

    July 25, 2017 at 7:08 am

    Firstly, what a precious little poppet, those eyes say so much! SO pleased that it has all turned out for the best. We all know that sinking feeling all too well. Will my child walk out with a smile or will they be crying or sad? They feel so much and it’s so difficult for us to deal with it all sometimes. You must be so proud! Thanks for sharing Laura! #globalblogging

    Reply
    • Laura Dove says

      July 30, 2017 at 5:21 pm

      Thank you so much, she is such a precious little girl and it has been so hard to see her struggle. That sinking feeling each morning is the worst, it’s a huge adjustment though – for all of us! xx

      Reply
  95. The Frenchie Mummy says

    July 25, 2017 at 9:59 pm

    We have no idea how hard it can be sometimes. It’s a massive adjustment! But she made it and she looks so happier now! Plus as you said, it went fast. Beautiful post, you are obviously so proud of her and you have been through a lot of worries. I am not looking forward to all of that with Baba. Good luck for next year #KCACOLS

    Reply
    • Laura Dove says

      July 30, 2017 at 5:19 pm

      Thank you, I am so proud of her, it was a tough year but it will be the making of her I’m sure! xx

      Reply
  96. Bread // Queer Little Family says

    July 30, 2017 at 2:45 pm

    Lovely post, just lovely. Glad she was able to come out of it all in one peice. Hope she does even better next year. #kcacols

    Reply
    • Laura Dove says

      July 30, 2017 at 4:37 pm

      Thank you so much, I really hope so too. xx

      Reply
  97. Kerry says

    August 4, 2017 at 12:16 pm

    I feel your emotion, I had a similar start to reception last September wit my daughter, and she has come on leaps and bounds. Now I just have to go through it with my youngest this September. An emotional roller coaster it really is! ##KCACOLS

    Reply
    • Laura Dove says

      August 4, 2017 at 1:13 pm

      Ahh my youngest daughter starts in September too, so we are back to square one! And my son the year after! Ha! Being a parent is hard work – good luck! xx

      Reply
  98. Kate (Along Came Poppy) says

    August 5, 2017 at 8:54 pm

    Aw man sounds like it has been a tough year for her (and you). I hope Year One is much easier for her xx #KCACOLS

    Reply
    • Laura Dove says

      August 6, 2017 at 5:56 pm

      Thank you Kate, I really do hope so! xx

      Reply
  99. Jo - Pickle & Poppet says

    August 6, 2017 at 7:49 am

    This must have been so hard to watch. It’s probably something that we all fear as parents. Hopefully she’ll keep the confidence come September and wear that beautiful smile everyday!

    Reply
    • Laura Dove says

      August 6, 2017 at 5:52 pm

      I really do hope so Jo, she is such a lovely little girl and I really want her to enjoy her time in school. xx

      Reply
  100. Donna says

    September 27, 2021 at 9:10 pm

    Omg I’ve just found this and thank you, just thank you. Xx

    Reply

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Flea Network Top 20 UK Parent Blog 2018
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It hit me this morning that today is the day Josep It hit me this morning that today is the day Joseph would have sat his first GCSE and it broke my heart to think how I should have been waving him off at the door, wishing him good luck, and watching him walk away with a nervous knot in both our stomachs. Our days should be filled with revision stress and cue cards, with Lewis offering up advice from the same exams two years earlier, with the kids handing over good luck cards in brightly coloured crayon. 

We should be thinking about his prom, about what colour suit to wear, whether he’d be going with his mates or a special someone. We should be counting down to his 16th birthday in July, such a big milestone for our Summer baby, excited for six weeks of adventures before the move to college in September. 

I guess it’s only natural to miss him more in these moments, to feel as though that Joseph shaped hole in our lives is all encompassing, to wonder who that little baby would have grown into and to wish with all my heart that he was right here, shoulder to shoulder with Lewis, another big brother for the kids to torment throughout his teens. 

There’s nothing I can say to truly explain how much it hurts at every milestone or how it physically takes my breath away when I realise another moment has passed we will never share. I just feel so sad today, for him and for me, and as much as I try SO hard to live a happy life for the both of us, I think it’s okay to have these moments and acknowledge that it hurts. And it does, enormously. 

Good luck to all of the year elevens sitting their exams today and sending love to those of you facing another milestone without someone you love. ❤️

#missingyou
This week is Mental Health Awareness Week and alth This week is Mental Health Awareness Week and although you all know I have a real love hate relationship with awareness days, having struggled with my mental health since my teens, I felt it was only right to join the conversation. 

The theme this year is loneliness with one in four adults admitting they feel lonely some, or all of the time. Loneliness has played a huge role in my struggles over the years and there have been times I felt that way more often than not. 

For me loneliness doesn’t come from being physically alone, my live is undeniably abundant with family and friends, with exciting adventures and opportunities and I am surrounded by love and kindness every single day. For me loneliness comes from the days my own internal monologue drowns out the voices of others, the days I feel overwhelmed in every aspect of life but just don’t have the words to share it, the days when I look around at this wonderful life I have created and still don’t feel like I truly fit in. 

Loneliness can be different for everyone and I guess the real worry is that the lonelier you feel the less likely you are to reach out for help if your mental health is suffering. To anyone who feels lonely, or those struggling with their mental health, there are so many people you can reach out to for support and, alongside your GP and other health professionals, I’ve tagged some in this post. 

Plus genuinely, and I mean this from the bottom of my heart, my inbox is always open for those who need a chat, a friendly ear or mutual support. ❤️

#mentalhealthawarenessweek
Ad| Being such a big fan of @hollyhopkinson_diarie Ad| Being such a big fan of @hollyhopkinson_diaries, Megs was so excited to read the third title in the series The Super Secret Diary of Holly Hopkinson - Just a touch of utter chaos! Holly Hopkinson reminds me a lot of Megs, she is extremely dramatic, very opinionated, hilariously funny and always on the brink of multiple catastrophes! Thanks to her magic pocket watch life is one big adventure and, just like Megs, she well and truly uses it to her advantage! 

The great thing about these books is that they are written in the way that you'd tell a friend about your day with a simple diary format, easy to read conversational language, lots of different texts and doodles, and so many moments which have you laughing out loud. So many times I've look over and see Megs giggling at something she's read or a particular phrase that's been used and it reminds me so much of myself at the same age. She particularly loves the use of the word doofus. 

If your children love reading about magic and mayhem they will adore this one too! I'll pop a clickable link in my stories if you'd like to check it out! 

@HarperCollinsCh 
#HollyHopkinson #hollyhopkinsondiaries
Happy humpday 🐪 I don’t really have a lot to Happy humpday 🐪

I don’t really have a lot to share today, I’ve spent the day glued to my laptop getting some work done and trying not to fall down any rabbit holes on TikTok, get distracted by WhatsApp or wander into the kitchen and eat my body weight in snacks. It’s been a struggle I’m not going to lie. 🤣 

Throwing it back to the other week and our visit to Normandy. We found this amazing macaron shop in Rouen and I’m pretty certain it was Eva’s highlight of the entire trip. She definitely got her macaron obsession from her Mama and they literally had every flavour you can think of. 😍

How’s your week going? 

#happyhumpday
Lessons I learned in the Sahara… Today I finall Lessons I learned in the Sahara…

Today I finally found a way to put down in words some of the lessons I learned from trekking 100km across the Sahara last month (and I don’t mean packing more blister plasters…🤣). 

When I first signed up to trek the Sahara desert, raising money for @coppafeelpeople as my own personal challenge for my 40th year, I was a very different person altogether. Hitting such a huge milestone had spurred me on to try something new, to put my fears aside, to push myself to the limit and celebrate the fact that although the years were passing me by, I was truly living every moment to the fullest. Fast forward two years to a global pandemic, four trek cancellations and a whole lot of heartache and by the time I packed my bags and boarded that plane to Morocco, I felt utterly broken in every aspect of life.

And so it came to be that what was on paper a journey of 100km, turned out to be a journey of self discovery, of self love, of self acceptance, friendship and determination. And more than that, having spent 42 years on the periphery of understanding what life was truly all about, ultimately, and inexplicably, it turned out to be a journey that would change my life forever….

You can read more over on the blog. Link in bio. ❤️

(P.S I am well aware this photo wasn’t taken in the Sahara but it has sand in it so it counts, okay? 🤣). 

#newblogpost
Waltzing into a new week and hoping to find some m Waltzing into a new week and hoping to find some motivation. I have felt utterly exhausted this last week and I feel like a broken record going on about it but it’s been a real struggle. I was feeling on top of the world after the Sahara but, as I expected would be the case, when I finally stopped and took a breather, fibro has well and truly kicked my ass! 😩

Chronic illnesses are draining, both mentally and physically, and I think people often struggle to comprehend how you can trek 100km across a desert one month and struggle to climb the stairs the next. I guess I’m still trying to work that out for myself but in the meantime I’m trying to take it easy, keep my head down and just get through each day without falling asleep. Ironically I also have insomnia so as soon as I get into bed I’m wiiiiiide awake. Oh the joys. 😐

Anyway this photo put a smile on my face with my beautiful Megs dancing at @historialjeannedarc last month in Normandy. She has a school activity day tomorrow and is SO excited for it, a much needed distraction from the bunny saga (if you watch my stories you’ll know what that’s all about). 🙈

Here’s to getting through another week, we’ve got this. 👊

#mondaymotivation
ad| If you’d have told me I’d go all the way t ad| If you’d have told me I’d go all the way to Finland and spend half the day in a library in Helsinki, I’d never have believed it. It turns out that @oodihelsinki is unlike any library you’ve ever seen and actually, it represents so much more than you’d think at first glance. 🙌

Not only does Oodi house “book heaven”, an entire floor filled with over 100,000 books to take home, but it also has a cafe, a restaurant, a movie theatre, audio-visual recording studios, a maker space, public balcony and an extended living area for locals and visitors to enjoy. 😯

There’s wayyyy too much for me to share in just one caption so I’ve wrote a post about it over on the blog and I’d love for you to head over and read it. The people of Helsinki are SO proud of their city and I’ve tried really hard to share some of the amazing reasons as to why we fell in love with it too. ❤️

#Helsinki #VisitHelsinki #MyHelsinki
Do you ever have days where you just have so much Do you ever have days where you just have so much to say but you’re just too mentally exhausted to say any of it? I think the last few weeks have finally caught up with me and I just want to lie down for a while, let all of my plates stop spinning and just breathe. Maybe it’s a combination of being deficient in just about every vitamin needed (finally get my B12 jab tomorrow!), maybe it’s a lack of sleep due to way too many TikTok rabbit holes (the Johnny Depp/Amber Heard trial has me gripped), maybe it’s just that social media feels a little heavy again right now, or maybe we’re all just needing the sunshine to come back because let’s be honest, this weather is pretty shocking for May! 😑

Either way I think it’s perfectly okay to admit that some days are hard and we can’t always be eating fresh macarons in France or climbing sand dunes in Morocco. By the way did I ever mention that one time I trekked 100km across the Sahara desert?? 🤔🤣

Anyway, on the plus side, I’ve been convinced it’s Tuesday all day long so at least it’s closer to the weekend than I was expecting. I’m praying the sun comes back before then just to perk us up a bit but until then, throwing it back to the Tuscany/Umbria border and one of my favourite places in all the world. 🥰

How are you all doing? 

#waybackwednesday #takemeback
ad Of all the fun things we did in Helsinki this E ad Of all the fun things we did in Helsinki this Easter, I think our bike tour was definitely one of our favourites. We love cycling and whilst the kids are forever zooming about on their bikes, I’m guilty of rarely making the time to cycle these days and I miss it so much. Bike tours are such a fab way to see more of a city (especially when you’ve got kids as cycling is way more exciting than walking!) and a great way to keep warm when the temperatures are below zero! 🤣

Over on the blog today I’ve been sharing more about Helsinki including our trip to the Botanic Gardens and also @oodihelsinki which is just the most incredible place and one you have to read about to really understand what it is (and also what it symbolises). I’ll share the links in my stories and hope you’ll pop over for a read. 🥰

Do you prefer bike tours or walking tours?

#Helsinki #VisitHelsinki #MyHelsinki
ad I’ve been busy over on the blog this week sha ad I’ve been busy over on the blog this week sharing some of our posts from our recent trip to Helsinki, Finland. I have SO much to share with you all but so far I’ve shared our day out at beautiful Suomelinna Sea Fortress and our tour of Helsinki with @happyguidehelsinki. There’s a link in my bio but I’ll pop a clickable one in my stories too. 🙌

I love this photo of the kids during our bike tour, our guide was amazing at finding all of the best spots to take in the views or for taking photos. This was outside Hakaniemi Market Hall which is basically filled with the most delicious range of food you’ve ever seen. The food in Helsinki is off the chart, I’m missing it so much now we’re back home and having to make decisions about what to cook for tea each night. 🤣

This week I’ll be sharing posts about the Botanical gardens, the Olympic Stadium, our first Finnish sauna experience, all the best restaurants to eat at in Helsinki and the lessons we can learn from a city such as this. Watch this space!! 🥰

What would you like to know about Helsinki? 

#visithelsinki
Ad| After a long day at work and the chaos of gett Ad| After a long day at work and the chaos of getting the kids bathed and to bed, there is nothing better than finally sitting down for a minute with Gaz and sharing a moment….even more so when it involves the new @cadburyicecream Darkmilk ice creams. 

With creamy vanilla ice cream and a rich chocolate centre, dipped in Cadbury chocolate, they are the perfect way to end a day and enjoy with someone you love (and even just by yourself!). At just £3 for a pack of four, available at all major retailers, they are undoubtedly my new favourite ice cream - that chocolate centre is INSANE!!

Have you tried them yet?

P.S Gaz was 100% laughing at something I said here. I am pretty hilarious like that…..🤪

#CadburyIceCream
Ad| As you all know, we adore our dog Oscar and fo Ad| As you all know, we adore our dog Oscar and for the last eleven years he has enhanced our lives in countless ways. @tescobank understands that pets play a crucial role in our lives, not just to reduce stress, keep us company and encourage us to exercise more, but to have a positive impact on our mental health too. 

Through some of my most difficult moments Oscar has dragged me out of bed, forced me to get outside for some fresh air, and snuggled up beside me when he knew that’s all I needed. He’s the best listener (the only one in this house who doesn’t talk back!) and the best furry friend we could hope for. I can’t even imagine our home without him, although it would be a lot quieter that’s for sure. 

I’ve shared more over on stories including a day in the life of Oscar and included a link so you can visit The Pet Effect page from Tesco Bank. It has lots of interesting info on pets and wellbeing, plus there’s useful hints and tips on how to care for your furry friends.

How does your pet keep you smiling?

#LoveYourBestie
Ad| You may have seen me share last week how @soda Ad| You may have seen me share last week how @sodastreamgb has partnered with @see_turtles this month to commit to saving one baby sea turtle for every sparkling SodaStream sold worldwide. To support this they've created a really fun interactive AR experience where you can save a baby sea turtle and teach your children more about how to help save endangered species. Our kids have really enjoyed using the app and also learning more ways to help protect our planet.

Of course alongside that, SodaStream's are a great way to enjoy sparkling drinks especially through the Spring/Summer and with this recent sunshine we've been making the most of ice cold lemonades in the garden and even a cocktail or two when the kids are in bed! If we can help save the planet at the same time, it's a win win situation!

Don't forget you have until the end of April to buy a SodaStream and know that you're saving a baby sea turtle, that's pretty special isn't it? Have you tried a SodaStream yet?

#SodaStream4SeaTurtles

#Pushforbetter

#Sodastream

#sodastreamuk
Ad| This week we travelled to Normandy, France for Ad| This week we travelled to Normandy, France for a sneak peek of the Normandy Food Tour heading to the UK from the 29th April. We sampled the most delicious range of produce, from local cheeses to homemade ciders, and I’ve got to say - you are in for a treat!! 

The food tour will visit four towns in the South East and East of England this year - Hastings on April 29th, Windsor on the 30th, Norwich on 1st May and Canterbury on the 2nd. Not only is it a great way to try delicious food and drinks, but it’s a fantastic way to learn a little more about Normandy as a whole and the historical significance of such a beautiful place. 

Are you planning on visiting the Normandy Food Tour this year? 

For more info, please see @normandy_tourism!

#NormandyFoodTour
Although I have a to do list a mile long, I’ve j Although I have a to do list a mile long, I’ve just fallen down a rabbit hole of photographs and this one really made me smile (and not just because of the accidental twinning 🤣). As much as I love being at home, I love the freedom of our travels, the lack of routine, the excitement of exploring, the memories we make outside of these four walls. 😍

Last week in France Gaz and I talked a lot about the benefits of travelling with the kids, about how much they learn on every adventure, how their knowledge of the world is so much more useful to them than divisional fractions or fronted adverbials. I’d love to take them out of school and teach them in this way but I guess the logistics aren’t quite that easy. Maybe one day? 🤔

That said, it won’t be long until we are right back here in Chania, hopefully feeling every bit as happy as we did right there, and in the meantime I need to crack on with this to do list and maybe even find time to clean my kitchen. No more rabbit holes for me today! 🤣

Hows your Wednesday going?

#takemeback #waybackwednesday
💐Spring has sprung! 💐 Everything feels bett 💐Spring has sprung! 💐

Everything feels better when the sun shines doesn’t it? I’m so looking forward to sunny days and warm evenings in the garden, it makes such a big difference to both my mental and physical health. 🙌

I feel like I’ve been in a really good place since the Sahara, my pain levels have been under control, I’m eating well, exercising more, feeling far happier than I was at the start of the year, and slowly getting my life in order. I really want to keep that going, even on the days it feels really tough. 🙏

I’ve got a lot of work to catch up on this evening but with MAFS now finished I need something easy to have on in the background to keep me company. What’s everyone watching right now? 

📷 Coat is from @lighthousestyle (PR product).

#springhassprung
We spent the last few days in Normandy, France for We spent the last few days in Normandy, France for work and had the best time visiting new places, trying new dishes and making new memories as a family. I spent some lovely holidays here in Normandy as a child and I love that I was able to return with the kids and make memories of our own. ❤️

This photo was taken in Rouen which is just the most beautiful city full of history, hidden gems and beautiful streets to explore. I’m pretty sure it’s a legal requirement to take a photograph walking down this street. 🤣

I’ve got so much to share with you all so watch this space, in the meantime I’m just juggling deadlines, the back to school madness and wondering at what point I’ll finally take a breath after the craziness of the last month. As exhausting as it sometimes is, I wouldn’t change a single thing. 😴

How was your weekend?
ad I realised today I’ve only spent 10 of the la ad I realised today I’ve only spent 10 of the last 30 days at home and for that reason I’m looking forward to getting back into a routine tomorrow and knuckling down with some work. I have SO much I want to share with you from Helsinki, a country which totally stole our hearts, and I can’t wait to put that all down in words and tell you all of the amazing things it offers to both those who live there and those who visit. 

There is so much we can learn from a city such as Helsinki - how to live more sustainably, how to embrace equality, democracy, individuality, how to establish a better work-life balance, how to fall in love with where we live. The pride these people have for their city is heart warming and having spent time there I can completely see why. ❤️

So that’s my plan for the week, to put down in words the world wind of the last few weeks and embrace a slower pace of life….for a little while at least. 

#myhelsinki #visithelsinki #helsinkifinland #visithelsinkifinland #helsinkiofficial
ad| Throwing it back to the Easter holidays and ou ad| Throwing it back to the Easter holidays and our trip to Helsinki, somewhere we had never been before but will certainly be going again. You can imagine the children’s excitement when we arrived to snow although I think we experienced every weather possible during the week and, as is always the case (Sod’s law!), we left to the most beautiful spring sunshine. ☀️

This photo was taken on Suomenlinna, one of over 330 islands here in Helsinki, and described as an immersive historical experience. We absolutely loved our time on the island and the kids adored the hidden passages, the “hobbit holes” and finding the hidden magic of such a beautiful place. ❤️

Did you know Helsinki had so many islands to explore?
Ad| I have always been a big fan of a good horror Ad| I have always been a big fan of a good horror and my girls are exactly the same which is why they were super excited to read Dread Wood - the new must-read fiction novel for the queen of kids horror! It’s basically a story about the worst school detention ever with so many spooky twists and turns! 

It’s perfect for kids aged 9+ and if your children are fans of books like Goosebumps then they’ll go wild for this! I love that it has the perfect balance of scary and fun, lots of lovely themes about friendship and working together as part of a team, and allows the kids to really use their imaginations with every turn of the page. 

I’ve shared more over on stories and a clickable link if you’d like to check it out! 

Do your kids like spooky stories?

@farshorebooks #farshore #dreadwood #childrensbooks #horror
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